Ocean Freight from China: FCL & LCL
Compare full-container and shared-container options for planned commercial cargo. The shipment size, loading method and destination handling determine the useful comparison.
Discuss your shipment →Choose FCL or LCL around the shipment
FCL reserves a container for one shipper. It can suit larger volumes, repeat inventory movements and cargo where fewer consolidation handoffs matter. LCL combines smaller shipments, making it useful when a full container is unnecessary. Ask for both options when the delivered totals are close.
Build a complete ocean quote
The ocean rate is one part of the budget. Confirm supplier pickup, loading, export handling, terminal fees, documentation, destination handling and inland delivery. Separate customs brokerage, duties, taxes and insurance. For LCL, ask which CFS charges and minimums apply at destination.
Plan container handling before collection
Tell us whether the factory can load a container, whether goods are palletised, and whether cargo is stackable. Provide the final packed dimensions and gross weight. Oversized pieces, weight concentration and wood packaging need review before equipment is booked.
Understand the timetable
A sailing estimate does not include every handoff. Cargo readiness, consolidation cut-offs, export release, transshipment and destination delivery each affect availability. Confirm whether the proposed timing ends at port arrival, cargo release or your warehouse.
Prepare a useful shipment brief
- Product description, packing and any special cargo requirements.
- Package count, final dimensions and gross weight.
- Pickup address, destination postcode and agreed Incoterm.
- Cargo-ready date, required arrival date and delivery conditions.
Related planning guides
FCL vs LCL · Air vs sea · Compare freight quotes · Document checklist